This week on the podcast, we're talking about the characteristics of confident people. We share how the way we were raised helps us understand and find an internal confidence. We also discuss some of the vulnerabilities that come with insecurities.

On this episode, Julie shares, "as a mom and a boss, something I always try to prioritize is to leave people more confident than you found them."

In this episode, we share how we were inspired by the Artemis II mission and what those astronauts learned while traveling to the dark side of the moon. One of the quotes that got us thinking was from Astronaut Jeremy Hansen. He said, "We're not always on the joy train, this crew, there are many times we're not on the joy train, but we are committed to getting back on the joy train as soon as we can. And that is a useful life skill for any team trying to get something done."

Julie shares how sometimes facing reality helps her more easily get back on the joy train. Sarah shares about how when she takes the time to have awe in her life, she feels joy. Vanessa shares how she's getting her family to feel that inspiration and rally around something powerful like this experience.

Don't forget to start Chatbooking! Get started on your first classic photo book or monthbook subscription now.

Vanessa is joined by her sisters in another episode where they discuss the sneaking out hijinks they all got up to in a family of 12 kids as well as how they deal with their own families' stories of teens sneaking around. They wrestle with the big question: how do you trust your kids and let them have their own freedom while also protecting and doing your duty as a parent when it comes to curfews, bedtime, and rules of the home?

Vanessa's sister Shelly also shares about an upcoming product she and her husband are working on called Analog that helps protect families from the dangers of sneaking around online. She provides a checklist to watch out for:

• Set a baseline
  • Check and recheck the parental controls because they do reset
  • Don't let kids delete or install apps without permission
  • Limit screen time on apps
• Also watch out for:
  • Kids changing the timezones
  • Redownloading apps
  • Using VPNs
  • Using Siri to get around certain parental controls
  • Friends' phones

Psychologist and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Lisa Damour is joining Vanessa and her sister Shelly on The MomForce Podcast to talk about stress and anxiety. To begin the episode she outlines when anxiety is at normal levels in our kids and when it is time to step in and get help. Dr. Damour gives practical tips and tricks on how we can help our kids and ourselves cope with strong feelings. She also explains what negative coping strategies look like and what to replace them with. Give it a listen and check out her award-winning books Untangled and Under Pressure  

Make a Chatbook and use code POD20

Since recording this episode for Season 1 of The MomForce Podcast, Ralphie Jacobs of Simply on Purpose has grown her following to more than 400k on Instagram and continues to teach live workshops and courses for parents. In today's episode, Ralphie and Vanessa tackle tough parenting questions about disciplining toddlers (and teenagers) and how modeling good behavior for our children helps them better understand expectations. Ralphie reminds us that it's never too late to make positive changes and that sleep can do wonders for toddlers and teenagers alike! 

Make a Chatbook and use code POD20

Since the original release of this episode in 2020, Shea McGee has released her second book, had her design series on Netflix renewed for a third season, and had a sweet baby girl join the McGee family. So how did a girl who went to school in Public Relations end up creating Studio McGee? Shea joins Vanessa Quigley to talk about how she built her brand, alongside her husband Syd, while trying to balance life with two small kids.

Make a Chatbook and use code POD20

Camila McConaughey is an entrepreneur, model, designer, and philanthropist. She came to the United States from Brazil at 15-years-old and found work as a house cleaner and waitress. Years later she was able to break into the modeling industry. Today she is married to Matthew McConaughey and living in Austin, Texas where they are raising their three children. In this episode of The MomForce Podcast, Camila and Vanessa Quigley talk about family dynamics and what it really takes to make a marriage work. Camila shares insights into her parenting style and if she and Matthew will be going for baby #4! 

Follow Camila McConaughey on Instagram and check out her online community at WomenofToday.com  

Make a Chatbook and use code POD20

Sharon McMahon of the @sharonsaysso Instagram account is a former high school government and law teacher that has been called "America's Government Teacher". She began building her "Governerds" community while sharing bipartisan facts about how the U.S. government works in preparation for the 2020 presidential election. In this episode of The MomForce Podcast, Sharon and Vanessa Quigley talk about the current events in Ukraine and how to discuss them with our kids. Listen to this episode for Sharon's tips on how to raise kids to be critical thinkers in the fast-paced world of 24/7 news and technology. Plus, what action she is taking with her own children to make sure that they are good citizens and leaders. 

Follow Sharon Says so on Instagram and check out SharonMcMahon.com

Make a Chatbook and use code POD20

Experts at creating order out of chaos, Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin of The Home Edit have shot to stardom thanks to their trademark rainbow organization, successful Netflix series, and powerhouse roster of Hollywood clients. The business partners and best friends have authored two books together that detail their process for organizing homes and from there, they have built out teams across the country that can be hired to help conquer the mess. Clutter and carpool are an inevitable part of being a mom but Clea & Joanna from The Home Edit promise they have systems to keep everything in order. Listen to this episode to hear what their homes really look like and why we all need to adapt their "low bar lifestyle" motto.   

Follow The Home Edit on Instagram and check out TheHomeEdit.com 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Karalynne Call of @just.ingredients and mom of 6 kids, teaches us why we must nourish our minds and bodies. 15 years ago Karalynne found herself in the depths of severe depression. After attempting suicide she knew she needed to find help. Karalynne began her journey of healing through trial and error and plenty of research. Today, as a certified nutritionist, she has helped thousands of families swap out everyday ingredients in their homes to live a more balanced and non-toxic lifestyle. Karalynne tells Vanessa Quigley why living this way should be the top priority for every family. 

 Follow Karalynne on Instagram and check out justingredients.com

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Design icon Julia Marcum of Chris Loves Julia shares some incredible words of wisdom with Vanessa Quigley on how to make your home a place you love. For the past 12+ years, Julia and her husband Chris have been renovating homes and sharing their process with the world on their blog and Instagram accounts. During the conversation, Julia gets real about the things you don't see on Instagram. You'll love hearing her candid opinion in this episode!

 Follow Julia on Instagram and check out chrislovesjulia.com

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Actress and singer Lea Michele made her first appearance on Broadway before she had even completed elementary school. From there she starred in countless musicals and landed her most well-known role as Rachel Berry on the hit show Glee. This past year Lea's life changed completely when she gave birth to her baby boy Ever. Her road to motherhood was filled with heartache and setbacks. During her conversation with Chatbooks co-founder Vanessa Quigley, Lea opens up about her struggles with PCOS and infertility and why no one really knew what she was going through. Listen to this episode to hear Lea share her real and honest experiences on The MomForce Podcast. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Lexie Kite Ph.D. of Beauty Redefined joins Vanessa for an empowering conversation about body image resilience. Lexie, and her twin sister Lindsay, co-wrote More Than a Body and co-founded the nonprofit organization Beauty Redefined. In this episode, Vanessa talks candidly about her own body image setbacks and how to build body image resilience on a daily basis. Lexie shares tips on raising daughters of all ages and what messages they need to hear. The Kite sisters have been spreading their, "Your body is an instrument, not an ornament" message for more than 10 years. They are leading experts when it comes to body image resilience and media literacy. Listen for some life-changing wisdom!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Growing up, Vanessa's family was basically two animals away from running a full-on zoo—but parenting with pets? That's a whole different story. In this episode, she sits down with Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt—New York Times bestselling author, animal advocate, and mom—to ask the big question: Are pets really worth it?

They talk about the beauty and chaos of raising kids (and animals), how pets teach responsibility and empathy, and the heartbreak that comes when it's time to say goodbye. Katherine shares stories from her new children's book Kat and Brandy—inspired by her own childhood pony—and offers thoughtful advice for families deciding whether to add a furry (or feathered!) friend to the mix.

Whether you're a lifelong "animal person" or still dodging your kids' puppy PowerPoints, this conversation will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even rethink what "family" really means.

Katherine's book is out now! Order Kat and Brandy today!

Start printing your photos with Chatbooks!

Follow us on Instagram @vanessaquigley @chatbooks

The D'Amelio family experienced overnight stardom thanks to dance videos on TikTok. Charli D'Amelio began posting dance routines to the app when she was just 15-years-old in 2019, she quickly became the most followed account on the social media platform. Soon her older sister Dixie joined in on the fun, and now the D'Amelio family has a combined following of more than 200 million. As the mom of Dixie and Charli, Heidi D'Amelio has been called the reigning first lady of TikTok. In this episode of The MomForce Podcast brought to you by Chatbooks, Heidi shares her honest thoughts on raising kids in our social media-obsessed society. She also talks about her dedication to being a present but not overbearing parent and what she does when someone goes after her daughters.

Follow @heididamelio     

Watch The D'Amelio Show on Hulu 

Listen to Marc and Heidi: The Other D'Amelios

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

No one has all of the answers when it comes to parenting, but we have had some incredible aha moments during Season 2 of The MomForce podcast. From design questions with Shea McGee, to life on the big screen with Melissa Joan Hart. We are excited to share some of our favorite words of wisdom from our guests this past season. 

Kendra Adachi @thelazygenius 

"Our culture is obsessed with being real, but we've been using the wrong measuring stick. Usually when people say, oh, you're so real, it's when I am showing the messy parts of my life. You know, that I yelled at a kid or that my house is a mess or that I burned food or something like that. Because we all relate to that. And so those things are important because they're part of life. But I think there has been a bit of an idolization of not caring that unless you are sort of a mess, you're not being vulnerable. You're not actually being real. If you are showered and you have on a bold lip and you got stuff done today and you tell people that, well, then you're just fake. But both things are real and both things exist in the same person often. We don't need to conflate messiness and vulnerability or cleanliness or orderliness or whatever it is. That separates us from each other."

Gretchen Rubin @gretchenrubin 

Research shows and I think common experience confirms that about 50% of happiness is hardwired. Some people are Tiggers and some people are Eyores and that's pretty much hardwired. Then like 10% to 20% is life circumstances, like age, health, wealth, occupation, and marital status. And then all the rest is very much a function of both conscious thoughts and actions. And a lot of times when I hear parents saying to me, like I wanted to help my child be happier when I talked to them, what I realized is you're an eight on the one to 10 scale. You're a Tigger. And you got a kid who's a five on the one to 10 scale. They're an Eyore. And you're not going to turn them into an eight. They are who they are. It's like, you get what you get and you don't get upset."

LaNesha Tabb @apron_education 

"My number one tip for teaching children about diversity is - stop being weird about it. It's totally okay to notice differences and appreciate them. That would look like if your child notices the color of someone's skin or that their hair is different. Don't shush them, lean into it and say, their skin looks that way because they have a different amount of melanin or people have different kinds of hair and that's okay. So the more you aren't weird about it as a parent, the more your children will learn to be open and accepting."

Jennifer Borget @jenniferborget 

"I think with social media, we have this expectation that all of your work needs to be on display. You know, if you do the work, we want receipts, but that doesn't need to be the case. I think a lot of the work is a personal thing and it's a lifelong thing." 

Renae Ingles @renaeingles 

"If you are a parent and you are sitting in that room and you have just received an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, it is not doomsday. I know that it feels like it right now, but it's not, I am two years into this autism journey and it is a tough, wonderful roller coaster that has so many more rewards than you could ever imagine." 

Lisa Clark @yourfunnyvalentine 

"I choked up when we were filming and I said the line, "My family life is insane and I want to hold onto every single freaking stupid, stressful, beautiful moment". Because you really want to imprint those moments on your heart forever." 

Melissa Joan Hart @melissajoanhart 

"I actually got really great advice. When my 14 year old was entering sixth grade, we were having so much trouble getting him to do his homework and we went to see a family therapist who gave us some really great advice. She said, he is going through a time right now where he doesn't know if he's a little boy or a big boy and he doesn't know what he wants to be.

So it is your job to just treat him like a little boy, you should not be treating him like he's an 18 year old or even a 16 year old. You treat him like he's your little baby boy. And ever since I did that, it really changed our dynamic."

Andrea Hanneman @earthyandy 

"The most common misconception about plant-based eating would be that you need to change your social life. When I first changed, I kept it a secret. What I learned is that no one really cares what you're eating. You can choose to eat fried chicken, and I might choose to eat an apple. At the end of the day, no one really cares." 

Jennifer Anderson @kidseatincolor 

"You're gonna be thinking, "oh my gosh, they're going to die because they only have two bites of food!". We have to take a step back and think, you know what? It's not our job to be in charge of the size or shape of our child. It's not our job to get them to swallow certain foods. It's our job to put the food on the table, to provide a consistent meal routine for them, to sit with them and to provide a calm eating environment."

Shea McGee @studiomcgee

"I always have had a pretty easy time listening to my heart and knowing if I don't feel good about something. Every time I didn't listen to that, something would go wrong. I would take on a client that I feel like, oh, I'm not sure if this is going to be a good fit, then I find out it's not going to be a good fit or every time I think, maybe my kid isn't ready for this activity and I do it anyway -then I find out why. I think that the same goes for design. If I'm not feeling good about something or I'm not head over heels for something. I don't buy it. Don't buy something just because the internet tells you that you should. I say wait, take a second. I think it's a skill that you develop over time. Syd and I have gotten better at trusting our gut over the years." 

Jamie Kern Lima @jamiekernlima

"I asked Meg Whitman, have you ever worried about body stuff? Does that affect you at all? And there was a long pause and then she just looked at me and said no. She goes, no, something has to give. She said, I have really focused on raising my kids and building my career. So my house does not look the way Martha Stewart's might. And I just don't worry about body image issues. It hit me for a minute and there's a famous quote that, anything we spend time on comes at the price of something else. Anything, and that's true of our time or our energy. And it hit me that, Oh my goodness, how many minutes slash hours slash days slash years of my life, have I wasted worrying about things that don't serve me or the world. Like when I think about ridiculous things. Like what size I fit into, or what diet I'm going to try, or how I don't want to go to a high school reunion because I don't fit into anything. Just little thoughts like that, that we have. And what a waste of time they are. Imagine balling up all of that time together. It was a huge aha moment for me. I really encourage everyone to do an inventory of the way we use our thoughts and our energy, because it's often in a way that doesn't serve us."

Listen to the full MomForce Podcast episode for more tips from our incredible Season 2 guests and get ready for Season 3 kicking off September 2021! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

How did Jamie Kern Lima go from waiting tables at Denny's to selling her cosmetics company for more than a billion dollars? Driven by the desire to create makeup products that would help with rosacea — a lifelong skin condition she was frustrated by — Jamie knew she had to make her products stand out. After appearing on national television without any makeup, along with real women as models, Jamie continued to grow IT Cosmetics until it was ultimately bought by L'Oreal for 1.2 billion dollars. Jamie stopped by The MomForce Podcast to talk about the ups and downs of her career and share how she found the confidence to believe in herself.

To purchase a copy of Jamie's book "Believe It": https://www.believeit.com/

Follow Jamie Kern Lima IG: @Jamiekernlima

Follow Jamie Kern Lima on FB @JamieKernLimaPage

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Cherish every single day. That is what Dallas based photographer and blogger Jennifer Borget strives to do as a homeschooling mom of 3. In this episode Jennifer opens up about race and diversity and her journey as a Black woman married to a White police officer raising a multiracial family.  She shares great resources and insights for all of us to learn from. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Link to Jennifer's blog: https://cherish365.com/

Eye-opening posts about race and racism: https://cherish365.com/my-must-read-blogs-for-black-history-month-2021/

16 Best Diversity and Inclusion Books for Kids: https://cherish365.com/16-best-diversity-and-inclusion-books-for-kids/

Find Jennifer on Instagram

FIND. YOUR. PEOPLE. This was the number one tip from this episode's MomForce guest, Renae Ingles, as she discussed her family's journey with their son who was diagnosed with autism at two-years-old. Renae Ingles is a retired athlete, wife to NBA player Joe Ingles (go Jazz!), and a mother of three. Her life may appear picture perfect, but Renae is quick to open up about the highs and lows that she faces on a daily basis within her family of 5. She has become a passionate spokesperson for autism awareness, research, and education since her son, Jacob, was diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder a couple of years ago. In this episode Renae clears up some common myths about autism and shares advice for anyone that might be facing a new diagnosis.

Find Renae on Instagram.

Kulture City: https://www.kulturecity.org/

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

When it comes to finding out what is important to you in your life, the first step is to name what matters. Kendra Adachi, New York Times bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way, shares how this mantra has changed how she lives her life. She is a podcaster, mom, author and creator of a life-changing chicken recipe (seriously, you need to check it out), and she joins Vanessa on The MomForce Podcast to discuss how you can be your own lazy genius. Kendra shares stories of how she has overcome her perfectionist tendencies and how making and building connections with other people ultimately is what she has named as what matters most.

SHOW NOTES:

Find Kendra on Instagram and her website.

Change-your-life chicken: https://www.thelazygeniuscollective.com/blog/change-your-life-chicken

Kendra's book: The Lazy Genius Collective

The MomForce Facebook Group

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Happiness is part of the human experience, and today's guest never tires of exploring the many facets of emotion and happiness. Gretchen Rubin, author of The Four Tendencies, has devoted her career and writing to understanding how humans respond to their expectations. In this episode of The MomForce Podcast, she explains that people's responses to outer and inner expectations determines which of the four tendencies (upholder, questioner, obliger, or rebel) they have.

SHOW NOTES:

The Four Tendencies Quiz

Gretchen's favorite parenting books: 

How To Talk So That Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

Siblings Without Rivalry

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Home is the first place a child begins to learn, and the role a parent plays in their children's education has changed dramatically since the global pandemic began. LaNesha Tabb of @apron_education and author of Unpack Your Impact is an educator and mother who is trailblazing a new curriculum for teachers, parents and students to learn about diversity, inclusion and cultivating important conversations. She shares with Vanessa the responsibility parents have to "disrupt the default" and consciously teach their children how to be anti-racist. In Lanesha's words she tells us all how we can, "Stop being weird about race". Additionally, LaNesha is a kindergarten teacher with 20 years of experience and she shares her number one tip for helping children learn at home. 

Vanessa's home school episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-momforce-podcast-hosted-by-chatbooks/id1464755075?i=1000468947702

LaNesha's guide for talking about racism: https://laneshatabb.com/home/store28348178-company-site/

Unpack your impact: https://laneshatabb.com/unpack-your-impact/

Read like a rockstar: https://readlikearockstarteaching.com/

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Sick of hearing "new year, new you"? Instead of New Year's resolutions, follow Andrea Hannemann in her pursuit of lifelong health habits. She lives by her mantra "plant over processed" and shares how you can do it, too!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Picky eaters are stressful! Jennifer Anderson of Kids Eat In Color has a mission to help parents feel confident feeding their families. Through her website and courses, she offers parents insights into family mealtime - especially with picky eaters! Jennifer joins Vanessa to talk through her best tips and tricks for fulfilling family meals. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Have you ever felt lonely—even when your life is full of people? Vanessa has too. In this solo episode, she opens up about the sneaky kind of loneliness that shows up when you're busy doing everything for everyone else and the friendships that fill your soul get pushed aside. From comparing yourself online to craving real connection, she's getting honest about what it feels like and what she's doing about it. Plus, she shares her favorite "dopamine questions" to help spark meaningful conversations and rebuild connection—one small step at a time.

Get started with Chatbooks!

Vanessa Quigley sits down with Melissa Joan Hart, of Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Clarissa Explains it All fame, to talk about where her career has taken her since her teenage years on TV. Melissa is now a mother of three and shares her experience with parenting and what has helped her the most while raising her boys. She also shares some behind-the-scenes secrets from the set of her latest film, Dear Christmas!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Finding the perfect gift can be hard, especially for those closest to you. Vanessa Quigley, Chatbooks co-founder and mother of 7, reflects on past episodes with guests Shea McGee, Dr. Tina Bryson and Jordan Page, and shares their tips and tricks on how they strengthen their most important relationships. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

How did a girl who went to school in Public Relations end up starting a design brand, writing a book, and collaborating with Target on a line of furniture and decor? Shea McGee of Studio McGee joins Vanessa to talk about how she built her brand, what it is like to star in her own Netflix series, and what is next for her and the Studio McGee brand! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Laughter is the best medicine and Lisa Clark, the original "Real Mom" of Chatbooks viral video fame, is here to prove it! She is a successful actress, author, and radio show host that has faced incredible difficulties this past year. Lisa shares how good humor helped guide her through the diagnosis and recent passing of her husband, Christopher Clark. To see more from Lisa follow her on Instagram. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Morning schedules, taking the family camping, and parenting different personalities are among the hot topics Vanessa and her sisters talked about in the first season of The MomForce Podcast. Vanessa compiled her all-time favorite moments and shares them in this episode. 

1. Hire a "warm body" to babysit when the kids are all in bed. 

All Things Babysitters - Part I

2. When should you let your girls start shaving their legs?? 

Keeping the Kids Clean(ish) - Shower, Rinse, Brush, Repeat.

3. Why printed pictures can strengthen your family relationships

Strengthening Families through the Printed Photo Dr. Trisha Weeks

4. How you can comfort a grieving friend - What advice would you give them

How to Help a Grieving Friend

5. Making service a priority in your family - Getting kids involved

Creating a Culture of Service in Your Family with Kristin Andrus

6. Helping your kids feel seen, safe, soothed, and secure

The Power of Showing Up with Dr. Tina Bryson

7. Getting on the same page with your partner about the family budget

Tackling the Family Budget with Jordan Page

8. Knowing the difference between discipline and punishment

Positive Discipline with Ralphie Jacobs of Simply On Purpose

9. When the best time to go to sleep is - and how to actually fall asleep

Rules for Bed with Sleep and Sex Therapist Christine Lawler of @the.peaceful.sleeper

10. Healthy ways to cope with anxiety, for parents and kids.

How to Cope with How How to Cope with Stress and Anxiety with Dr. Lisa Damour

Parenting is hard and we don't have to do it alone! The MomForce is here to help you! We would love to see you join our Facebook group, where thousands of like-minded women from all over the world are helping each other out as we all learn and grow in our own womanhood/motherhood. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Award-winning journalist and former co-host of CBS's The Early Show, Jane Clayson Johnson talks with Vanessa about her experience with clinical depression and why she is speaking out to help others. She shares insights from her book, Silent Souls Weeping, where she interviewed over 150 men, women, and teens about their experiences with depression. During the conversation, Jane and Vanessa discuss ways to cope and when it is time to ask for help. To see more from Jane follow her on Instagram. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Father's Day is around the corner and on this extra special episode of The MomForce Podcast, Vanessa is talking to three very different dads about what fatherhood looks like in their home. Aaron McGee of @fatherhoodisdope talks about destigmatizing fatherhood. Scout Masterson talks about the adoption process he and his partner, Bill, went through to finally get their two children. Jeremy Andrus is a serial entrepreneur and the current CEO of Traeger Grills. He talks about teaching his 6 children the importance of service and giving back to their community. Whether you are in LA, Tennessee, or the mountains of Utah, fatherhood looks different for everyone. But one uniting factor for all these dads is teaching their kids to make the world a better place! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Sleep is one of a mother's most coveted things. Vanessa's sisters, Kara and Shelly, are talking about all things sleep. Thanks to the tips Shelly learned from Lauren Olson's episode, her baby Otto has mastered sleeping in this crib. Kara is due with her 5th baby this summer and some guidance from Becca Campbell's episode provided much-needed direction on how to make sure newborns (and moms) can get the rest they need. 

For more information on these sleep pros, check out their websites!

Christine Lawler

Becca Campbell

Lauren Olson

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Kate Call from @latewithKate is not afraid to goof off for the camera! For years, she's been making us laugh with her hysterical antics on her popular Instagram account but did you know she also is the founder of loungewear company, Lates by Kate? (If you need buttery soft jammies, then look no further!) In this episode of The MomForce Podcast, Vanessa and co-host Erika talk with Kate about how she started her business and how she "balances" work life and mom life - psssst, child labor! (wink wink) Kate also tells us why it's important for her to make people laugh. And it has everything to do with feeling comfortable in your own skin! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Budgeting can be a four-letter word! But our friend, Jordan Page makes it simple, and dare we say FUN! We are revisiting our popular episode to highlight Jordan's best tips for creating and sticking to a budget! Psssst - she has a website full of resources and tips, check out her website for details.

Want to learn more about The MomForce Podcast - be sure to join our Facebook group - full of thousands of moms from all over the world, helping each other through the highs and lows of parenting. Follow our host @vanessaquigley for all the latest at Chatbooks. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Few things are scarier for a mom than handing over the car keys—and then getting that phone call. In this sister episode, Vanessa and her sisters swap stories about teen drivers, fender benders, and what really happens after the crash. From how their parents handled it back in the day to what they're doing now with their own kids, the sisters get real about fear, forgiveness, and finding the funny in those heart-stopping moments. Plus, practical tips for what to do (and what not to say) when your teen crashes the car.

Vanessa and her sister, Erika, are talking to Vlada Bortnik, the founder of Marco Polo, a popular video-based messaging app. Vlada tells the backstory of the company and how it was created to help connect with others on their own schedule. As busy moms, keeping in touch with family and friends can get difficult. Vlada explains how Marco Polo can help! Vanessa and Erika are HUGE fans of the app and use it daily to stay in touch with their sisters and friends all over the country. Vlada also tells us why it's a completely safe app for children to use, which, BONUS, we have lots of children! And they love to connect with their cousins using it. There is science behind connection and the entire team at Marco Polo is on a mission to cure the loneliness epidemic.

 Download the Marco Polo app 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Want to learn more about The MomForce? Join our Facebook group - full of thousands of women helping each other through the highs and lows of parenting. 

Mother's Day is nearly upon us and it's sure to be unlike any other.

Vanessa and her 4 sisters discuss motherhood and what that means to each of them. With 30 kids between them, spread out across the country, the sisters have seen just about everything and are ready to dish on all that has happened over the past year.

A few of the questions they talk about are -

- "How has your relationship with your husband changed?"

- "What have you learned about your kids?"

- "How will your mothering change as a result of all this?"

- "What have you realized about yourself?"

To hear more from the sisters and other like-minded women from across the globe, be sure to join The MomForce Facebook group. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Building a business takes patience, grit, and a whole lot of passion. Vanessa chats with Anna Lozano and Lindy Sood of @lovepoweredco. The mission at Love Powered Co is "to empower the next generation of mindful leaders, through the POWER of I AM. "

Starting a company while raising young families didn't come without its hiccups, but Anna and Lindy's passion for helping others through positive affirmations has been what has kept the two of them going. If ever the world needed to be flooded with inspiring self-talk, it's now! 

To find more information on Love Powered Co, check out their website and instagram. They offer products for littles, teens, and adults.

Then be sure to head over to our MOMFORCE FACEBOOK GROUP - full of thousands of moms from all over the world, helping each other through the highs and lows of motherhood!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Vanessa and co-host Erika are talking to Emily Nelson, co-founder of High Fitness. Emily shares how and why she started the High Fitness movement with her co-founder Amber Zenith. What is High Fitness, you might ask? Take everything you loved about aerobics in the 80's and throw in some burpees and tuck jumps. Using simplified aerobic sequences and adding intense fitness-based moves, participants get a safe and effective workout! Check out High Fitness' Youtube Channel or Instagram page for ideas. 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

There seems to be no getting around screen time with teenagers, especially when mom needs some uninterrupted time to get a few things done! On this MomForce Mini episode, Leah is sharing her thoughts on screen time, particularly video games and social media. (pssst. She may have said "death to Snapchat!") 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Lisa Damour joins Vanessa, and co-host (and sister) Shelly, to talk about how to manage stress and anxiety. "Stress occurs anytime we are adapting to new circumstances." Dr. Damour says that feelings of stress aren't always bad - they are a normal human function that can lead to growth and durability. But what happens when that stress is too intense? She suggests staying away from negative coping strategies. Those can be poor eating habits, not getting enough exercise, and substance abuse. Instead, look to maintain social connections, get outside more, and take care of your body. 

Dr. Damour has a step-by-step strategy that we can all use to help get us through any meltdown. Click HERE to see it! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

This is an uncertain time, full of worry and anxiousness. Being pregnant can intensify those feelings! In this MomForce mini-episode, Vanessa is chatting with her sister Kara about her experiences being pregnant with baby #5 during a pandemic. Lets just say, thank heavens for FaceTime! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Social distancing has upended most of our lives, we've been told to "stay safe, stay home". And while that is exactly what we need to do, it's created a dire situation for many businesses that rely on the public to keep their doors open. Without major corporations backing them, these "ma and pop" shops have had to get creative in how they continue. 

Vanessa Quigley is joined by her husband Nate, Chatbooks co-founder, as they chat with three local restaurant owners about how they have adapted to the current situation. 

Click here to watch Waffle Love's TV show

Vanessa and Nate's podcast episode on The Nitty Gritty Podcast 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

The lack of GNO's and lunch dates on the calendar has left many of us feeling isolated and alone. On today's MomForce Mini, Vanessa chats with her sister Shelly about staying connected while keeping physical distance.  Psssst - Call your girlfriends, you both will feel better because of it!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

There is an acronym that is having its time in the spotlight: WFH. Working From Home is not a new concept, but due to the world wide pandemic and #socialdistancing, many of us have found ourselves trying to figure out how to make the most of this new norm!

Chatbooks co-founder and podcast host Vanessa Quigley is talking to Ashley aka AB, our marketing product manager about how she is managing her WFH schedule while having a 6 month old baby at home. 

Vanessa also gets some best tips from some veteran WFH Chatbooks employees. Did you know the majority of Chatbooks Customer service team is all remote, and mostly all mothers - 12 babies born to our MomForce team this past year! ! So when questions come up about how to balance WFH and motherhood (and for so many of us - HOMESCHOOLING) we knew we would get the best tips from these women.

Tip 1: Krista, who has been WFH for 10 years says do NOT get rid of "me time"! Whether it is a walk outside or taking a bath, taking care of yourself is what will give you the stamina to keep going.

Tip 2 : Hilary likes to block out 30 minutes in the day to tidy up. With kids home all day and schoolwork and homework and meals, the house can get away from you. Take some time to pick up - enlist kids to help. Having a tidy workspace can help improve everyone's mood and productivity. 

Tip 3 : This tip comes from Ashley, who knows all too well that the 3pm slump happens at home as well as at the office! Her go to fix - Dr. Pepper! Find something that you love, a treat, a drink, a snack and allow a moment of indulgence. 

Tip 4 : Alyce is 100% cool with tech! When she really needs some time to buckle down and get work done, or if she needs to take a call with a client, allowing screen time for her kids is top of her go to strategy! And especially now, with kids home from school, all day, everyday, relaxing whatever screen limits you may have just might prove to be the best course. 

This sudden change of circumstances can be hard. On everyone. It might take a hot minute to find what works for you and your family. Vanessa's final tip is it's ok to let things go! And we get a new day to try again! Good luck mamas! We are rooting for you. 

Check out The MomForce Facebook group for lots more advice on WFH, homeschooling, self care and more!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

We're back! This is season 7 of the MomForce Podcast and we couldn't be more grateful that you're here. This season is going to be more exciting than ever. You'll keep hearing from exciting guests with their expert opinions and stories on the podcast, but we're also bringing back Vanessa's sisters to join every other episode for some sister chats and funny family lore from their youth. 

In this episode, Vanessa shares how the new structure of the podcast will be as well as share one of her most vulnerable parenting moments that might make your skin crawl just a little... hey, we're all making this parenting thing up as we go!

Don't forget to get started on your Chatbooks and if you're a first time user, use code TAKE50 for 50% off your first classic book in a subscription!

Social distancing has given us a lot more time at home with our families.  So what are you doing with all of that time? On this MomForce Mini episode, Vanessa chats with her sister Erika about family time. Be ready to hear about some creative game nights! 

Here's 36 super creative and totally free family games to try at home!

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Host Vanessa Quigley and co-host Erika to talk to licensed sex therapist and sleep expert Christine Lawler about the science behind our sleep routines. Here are a few of Christine's tips:

Tip 1. If you don't fall asleep within 20 minutes of lying down, get out of bed and go do something productive until you start to feel drowsy. 

Tip 2. Stop the negative talk. When we tell ourselves, "I'm a terrible sleeper", we create an association that can make it difficult to get rest. Our beds need to be the place where we sleep, not scroll social media.

Tip 3. Find your ideal amount of sleep. Some people can function perfectly on 6 hours while others need 7.5 hours. Christine helps her clients find that sweet spot that allows them to get the most beneficial night's sleep.

Tip 4. Talk about sex. Tiredness can be interpreted as disinterest. Open conversations about where your head is at can clear most confusion about desire and frequency. 

Tip 5. It's ok for both partners not to go to bed at the same time. You may just need to get more creative at when you can be intimate. 

You can check out Christine's websites The Peaceful Sleeper and Christine Lawler for more tips and resources on both topics! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking! 

Did you ever think you'd be homeschooling all of your kids? Well whether we like it or not, many of us are getting that opportunity right now amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. And in today's MomForce Mini Vanessa shares some of her experiences homeschooling 5 of her 7 children and why she loved it! 

We are so happy you are here! Make a Chatbook and use code POD20. Happy Chatbooking!